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Fewer than one-third of the claims for disability benefits through the Social Security Disability Insurance program of the Social Security Administration are approved. The other two-thirds of applicants whose claims for disability benefits are not approved either give up or hire a disability lawyer to appeal the denial. Occasionally, Social Security adopts new rules or procedures for the disability approval process to make it easier for applicants to meet the qualifying criteria. That is what happened in 2024 with the adoption of a new Social Security Disability 5-year rule. This blog explains the rule and its modification of the SSDI work history requirements. As you read about the rule change, remember that people throughout Northern California and nationwide have entrusted their Social Security Disability claims to Sackett and Associates for over 45 years. Contact them if you need assistance with your application or require skilled representation to appeal a claim denial.

If you have a disability that is severe enough to prevent you from working, you may be facing significant financial stress. After all, being unable to work doesn't mean that the bills stop coming in. If you find yourself in this situation, you may wonder if you are entitled to disability benefits from the Social Security Administration and how much you might receive if your claim is approved. Let's take a closer look at the benefits that might be available and how they are calculated. What Benefits Are Available? The Social Security Administration has two different disability benefit programs, and eligibility will depend upon an applicant's particular circumstances. The two types of benefits are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. In order to receive either type of benefit, an applicant must provide evidence to establish that: The applicant has a qualifying medical condition: In order to determine if a particular medical condition qualifies for disability benefits, the Social Security Administration will often consult its listing of impairments, otherwise known as the Blue Book. This guide contains numerous conditions as well as their accompanying symptoms. Those who can provide sufficient medical evidence to establish that they have a condition in the Blue Book will typically increase their chances of being approved for benefits, although having a condition in the Blue Book is not necessarily required. Those who do not have a condition in the Blue Book may simply need to provide additional medical evidence regarding their condition and how it affects their everyday life. The condition has rendered the applicant disabled for one continuous calendar year or more: This requirement is fairly self-explanatory. If a condition is disabling but resolves in less than one year, an individual may seek short-term disability benefits from other sources but will not be approved for disability benefits from the Soci

If you have a disability that has caused you to be unable to work, you may be considering whether or not you should pursue a claim for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. One question many people ask when attempting to decide whether or not to pursue a claim is - how much would I receive in disability benefits? This is an understandable question to ask. After all, disability benefits can be very helpful in reducing financial stress for those unable to work due to their condition. Let's take a closer look at what types of benefits are available and how much you might receive. What Types of Benefits Are Available? The Social Security Administration offers two types of benefits to disabled individuals. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. In order to receive either type of benefit, an individual must have a qualifying medical disability that has caused them to be disabled for at least one continuous calendar year or more. If the disability is less than a year or occurs only intermittently, an individual usually will not be eligible for benefits. In order to determine whether or not a particular condition qualifies as a disability, the Social Security Administration will typically consult what is commonly known as the "Blue Book." The Blue Book is a listing of various impairments and their accompanying symptoms that, if established, may qualify for disability benefits. However, if you have a condition not listed in the Blue Book, you shouldn't panic. It may simply mean that you need to offer additional medical proof to establish the nature of your condition and its disabling effect. Although similar in some ways, SSDI and SSI benefits also have important differences. To be eligible to receive SSDI benefits, an individual must be "insured." To the Social Security Administration, this means that the person worked a qualifying job for a sufficient length of time,

If you live in California and you are unable to work as a result of a disability that has lasted for a year or more, you may be eligible for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. Additionally, you may qualify for a variety of benefits offered by the state of California itself. Understandably, you'll want to understand how these benefits and programs interact with one another so you can ensure that you fully assert your rights and pursue all benefits to which you're entitled under the law. What Benefits Are Offered by the Social Security Administration? Those who have a qualifying medical condition that has rendered them disabled for one continuous calendar year or more may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Eligibility for SSDI is determined by employment history and how much an individual has contributed to the Social Security system in payroll taxes. SSI, on the other hand, is intended for disabled individuals with income and resources below a certain threshold established by the Social Security Administration. This threshold may change yearly, so you must talk to an attorney who knows and understands the law and can offer advice regarding your situation. Regardless of whether you receive SSDI or SSI benefits, the amount of the benefit payment does not depend upon the condition itself. Instead, it will depend on a variety of things, including work and earning history, income and resource levels, and other factors, depending upon your circumstances. In California, individuals may receive SSDI benefits, SSI benefits, or both, depending on their particular situations. In addition to the typical Social Security disability benefits, those living in California may qualify for various other benefits as well. One of those programs is called "Covered California." Let's take a closer look together at what Covered California is and whether or not it could impa

No, you cannot receive both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Social Security retirement benefits simultaneously. This is because SSDI is essentially an early claim on your Social Security retirement benefits. When someone qualifies for SSDI, they are receiving the same benefits they would later receive as retirement income, just earlier due to their disability. The Social Security Administration (SSA) calculates SSDI benefits using the same formula as it does for retirement benefits. Your monthly benefit amount is determined based on your lifetime earnings and the Social Security taxes you have paid into the system. Once you reach full retirement age, SSDI benefits automatically convert into Social Security retirement benefits at the same amount. This means there is no financial advantage to collecting both at the same time, as they represent the same entitlement. At The GCC Law Firm, we dedicate our practice to helping individuals with disabilities receive the government benefits they deserve. Many people who are unable to work may qualify for significant financial assistance through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

If you struggle with a disabling medical condition that has rendered you unable to work and earn income as you otherwise normally would, you may be eligible to receive disability benefits from a variety of sources, including from the Social Security Administration. Depending upon the date that your disability began and the date you filed your application, you may also be eligible to receive retroactive benefits - also known as back pay. Let's examine the types of benefits offered by the Social Security Administration and the circumstances under which back pay might be awarded. What Types of Disability Benefits Does the Social Security Administration Offer? The Social Security Administration offers two primary types of disability benefits. These include: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Benefits: SSDI benefits are disability benefits that the SSA pays to individuals with a qualifying disability that has rendered them unable to work for at least one continuous calendar year or more. In addition, the person must be "insured," - meaning that he or she worked a qualifying job for a sufficient amount of time and regularly paid a portion of the salary from that job into the Social Security system. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits: As with SSDI benefits, in order to receive SSI benefits, an individual must have a disabling condition that has led to an inability to work for at least one calendar year or more. Unlike the case with SSDI benefits, however, an individual need not be insured. Instead, the individual will have to have income and resources below a certain limit established by the Social Security Administration. That limit may change from year to year. The amount of benefits paid to an individual will not depend upon the condition itself but instead, upon the individual's work history, income level, and a variety of other factors. Regardless of whether SSDI or SSI is received, back pay may be an option.

When a disabling medical condition prevents you from working, knowing how to file a disability benefits claim in Illinois could help you avoid financial hardship. Disability benefit programs through the Social Security Administration provide monthly cash payments and access to medical insurance through Medicare or Medicaid. You must meet eligibility requirements, including having medical records documenting that you are disabled according to the evaluation standards used by the Social Security Administration. It's not easy, and more than two-thirds of the disability applications submitted each year are denied benefits. The information in this blog explains the Illinois disability benefits application process, including what you can do to avoid processing delays or a denial of benefits. Use it to improve your chance of being approved while also learning how to appeal an unfavorable decision with the assistance of a disability lawyer from Gallow Cazort & Co. Law Firm. Disability Benefits Eligibility In Illinois The two disability programs available through the Social Security Administration are Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income. The SSDI program is for people who worked long enough and recently enough at jobs or through self-employment while paying Social Security taxes on their earned income. SSI is primarily for people with limited income and resources. For instance, you cannot own resources with a total value of over $2,000 as an individual or $3,000 for couples. You must be disabled to qualify for disability benefits through SSDI and SSI. However, individuals 65 and older who meet financial limitations and find it hard to pay for food, shelter, and other essentials may be eligible for SSI benefits without being disabled or blind. The Social Security Administration's definition of disability is the inability to do substantial gainful activity because of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment. The impairme

Many think of Social Security only as a source of retirement income that workers can rely upon when they reach retirement age. While it's true that approximately 52 million retired workers receive Social Security retirement benefits, the Social Security Disability Insurance program also provides financial assistance to 7.2 million disabled workers who are too young for retirement. The disability professionals at Sackett and Associates know the importance of SSDI benefits. According to data compiled by the Social Security Administration, one of every four 20-year-olds will become disabled and require Social Security Disability eligibility before reaching retirement age.

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be a challenging and often overwhelming process. While the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides resources for applying directly by phone or online, many people find that enlisting the help of a qualified disability lawyer ensures their claim is properly prepared and supported by all necessary documentation. This article will guide you through the SSDI application process and explain the benefits of consulting with a disability lawyer.

If you have a disability that has caused you to be unable to work, you may face financial difficulties. That's understandable. It can be incredibly challenging to go from regularly earning an income to being unable to work at all. If you find yourself in this situation, you may wonder whether you should pursue a claim for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration and, if so, how much you might receive. Let's take a closer look at the types of benefits available. Two Types of Benefits The Social Security Administration offers two types of benefits for disabled individuals, and eligibility will depend on your particular circumstances. They include: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): SSDI benefits are benefits provided by the Social Security Administration and funded through employment taxes. As a result, to qualify for this type of benefit, the recipient must be "insured." While this term sounds as if some sort of particular insurance policy is required all it means is that the applicant worked a job for a sufficient length of time through which they regularly paid a portion of their salary into the Social Security system. Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Unlike SSDI benefits, SSI benefits are not funded through employment taxes but are instead funded through general revenue. As a result, an individual may not be "insured" to be approved for benefits. Instead, SSI benefits are intended for individuals with low income and resources. Each year, the Social Security Administration sets an annual limit on income and resources, and those who have income and resources below that level may qualify for benefits if they also satisfy other necessary criteria.

Can qualify for Social Security Disability benefits if you never worked or paid into the Social Security system? The answer depends on which program you're applying for: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Here's a breakdown of how each program works and who is eligible for benefits, even without a work history. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two distinct programs under the Social Security Administration, but they have different eligibility requirements.

As an attorney at The Keener Law Firm, I spend a lot of time explaining how Social Security Disability benefits work. One of the most common questions I get is, "How much will I get if I'm approved for benefits?" The answer depends on several factors, including which disability program you qualify for, how much you've worked, and your financial situation. Let's break it down so you can get a clear idea of what to expect if you're applying for disability benefits in 2025. SSDI vs. SSI: The Two Main Disability Programs When people think of disability benefits, they often assume there's just one program. The Social Security Administration (SSA) runs two different programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The amount you receive in benefits depends on which program you qualify for. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is designed for people who have worked and paid into Social Security but can no longer work due to a disability. The benefit amount is based on your lifetime earnings before your disability, not your current financial situation. SSI (Supplemental Security Income), on the other hand, is a needs-based program for individuals with limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, it doesn't matter how much you've worked in the past-SSI is designed to provide basic financial assistance to those who need it most. Let's take a closer look at how these benefits are calculated.

According to the Social Security Administration, about 7.2 million disabled workers and around one million of the children and spouses of disabled workers collect Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. Most of them live in the United States, but some of them reside in other countries. If you live outside the country for more than 30 days, the Social Security Administration (SSA) considers you residing outside the U.S. As a U.S. citizen, you may continue receiving SSDI payments while living abroad, but you need to know and comply with rules prohibiting the SSA from sending Social Security Disability benefits overseas to certain countries. Rules for the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program also limit or restrict benefit payments to people outside the country.

At The Keener Law Firm, we often hear from clients who are confused and concerned when they find that their Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits have been reduced. We believe it is vital for every disability benefits recipient to understand all the reasons behind any possible benefits reduction. In this article, I will guide you through various grounds on which the Social Security Administration (SSA) might adjust your payment amount. Could It Be Due To Changes In My Income? Yes, changes in your income can lead to a reduction in your Social Security Disability benefits. The SSA has strict income guidelines that determine how much assistance you can receive. If you have started working or received additional income that exceeds the limit, your monthly benefits may be reduced or paused altogether. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients, any earnings over a specified threshold may trigger this adjustment, unless you are participating in the Trial Work Period (TWP) program. The Trial Work Period (TWP) is a special program designed to allow a disability benefits recipient whose impairment has improved to attempt to return to work without forfeiting their benefits should they exceed the SSDI income limit for up to nine months. The nine months during which the person tries to work need not be consecutive but may be spread over five years. However, if you are not participating in the TWP and your income exceeds the SSDI program's monthly income eligibility cap, your benefits may be suspended. At The Keener Law Firm, we understand how essential accurate reporting of income is. Many clients are unaware that even part-time or temporary work can affect their monthly benefits. If you find your benefits reduced, review any changes in your financial situation and consult with experienced disability lawyer who can help clarify your options. We are glad to answer any questions you have regarding benefits reductions.

If you qualify for disability benefits through the Social Security Disability (SSDI) program, it's because you have a physical or mental condition that keeps you from working. Under certain circumstances, you may work without affecting your eligibility for the program. How much you earn during a month more than the hours worked determines how it affects your eligibility or the amount of benefits you continue to receive. The following information explains Social Security work rules and how to avoid violating them. If you have additional questions or need assistance with an application for benefits or to appeal a claim denial, contact the disability lawyers at Sackett and Associates for a free consultation.

Financial hardship frequently adds to the challenges you face when diagnosed with a disabling physical or mental health condition preventing you from working. Disability benefits available through the Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income programs offer hope, but first, you must wait for approval of your claim. According to the Social Security Administration, it takes as much as eight months for an initial decision on disability applications. Fewer than one-third of applications are approved during the initial review. If your claim is denied, you may be forced to wait even longer while a disability lawyer appeals the denial of benefits. Appeals can take a year or longer before you receive a decision. The disability team at Sackett and Associates Law Firm, the premier disability lawyers in Northern California, wants you to know about income options while waiting for disability benefits. The following information explains several sources for financial help while waiting for disability benefits to be approved.

An inheritance should improve life for the person receiving it. If you receive benefits through the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program administered by the Social Security Administration, money or assets left to you could jeopardize your benefits unless you know and follow the SSI inheritance rules. SSI is a needs-based program. You must be in need, as evidenced by limited resources and income, but federal rules about SSI and inherited money could result in a loss of eligibility. This is unlike the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Social Security retirement programs with eligibility based on contributions made through payment of Social Security taxes on your income from working. An inheritance that would not affect eligibility for retirement or SSDI benefits could reduce or make you ineligible for benefits through SSI. This blog explains the SSI inheritance rules, so you'll know what to do if you inherit money or assets.

If you cannot work because of a severe medical condition, you may be eligible for benefits through the Social Security Disability Insurance program. You may have heard or read about the high rate of claim denials and been hesitant to become one of the more than 66% of claimants denied benefits each year. The disability benefits team at Sackett and Associates has been helping people with Social Security disability conditions in Northern California and throughout the country to qualify for benefits. This article explains the qualifying conditions for SSDI and how to improve your chances of success by being aware of the requirements for medical eligibility for disability.

What Medical Conditions Qualify For Social Security Disability?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports there are more than 11 million adults in the United States living with epilepsy. Many of them manage their condition by following a treatment plan prescribed by their doctors. For some people diagnosed with epilepsy, medication does not prevent severe and frequent seizures from interfering with their ability to engage in daily activities, including working. If you cannot work because of your medical condition, you may be eligible for disability benefits for epilepsy. The Social Security Administration has two programs, Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance, providing monthly cash payments and other benefits for individuals diagnosed with epilepsy. Qualifying for disability with epilepsy is not easy and requires medical records and other documentation proving how your ability to work has been affected by your medical condition. More than two-thirds of the applications submitted annually to the Social Security Administration are denied disability benefits. Stop asking yourself, "Is epilepsy a disability?" and learn more about it in this blog from the Northern California disability lawyers at Sackett and Associates.

A diagnosis on its own may not be enough for approval of a cancer disability claim. Qualifying for disability with cancer generally requires documentation that your condition is severe and prevents you from working and earning a living. Qualifying for disability with cancer is possible through two programs offered by the Social Security Administration: Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income. Eligibility for benefits through SSDI requires that you be "insured" by working long enough and paying Social Security taxes on the earnings. SSI is a needs-based program, so your income and resources must be limited. A cancer disability claim must be supported by medical records proving that your condition is severe and prevents you from working. This blog explains the process of obtaining disability benefits for cancer. After you read through it, know that the disability lawyers at Sackett and Associates are ready to answer your questions and help with your claim. They've been helping people throughout Northern California and other parts of the country with disability claims for more than 45 years.